Instructional Technology

Classroom Equipment
Blackboard
Audience Response System
Computing Classroom
Computer-Based Testing
Instructional Technology Center

Classroom Equipment

College of Pharmacy lecture rooms (PH 220 & PH 223) are equipped with smart classroom technologies. For further information or training on how to use this equipment, please contact Chris Porter at 323-8722.

Each room contains:

Dell Optiplex GX260 with dual monitor setup
- CD/DVD ROM drive
- USB ports
- Microsoft Windows XP
- Microsoft Office 2003
- Real Player
- Synthesis 2000 SE (Audience Response System software)
Smart panel controlled media cart
VGA cable for laptop use
Dual Epson projectors
Walltalker projection/dry erase boards
DVD/VCR combo
Remote Navigator PowerPoint Presenter with laser pointer
Sound system
Wireless microphone

Note: Login information to the classroom computers can be obtained from Academic Affairs in Rm 215 or by contacting:
Ned Smith 257-1169
Belinda Morgan - 257-5802
Jeff Cain - 257-4429

Blackboard

Blackboard is the official course management system of the university and is offered at no charge to all university faculty, staff, & students.

Please contact Jeff Cain at 257-4429 to get started using Blackboard or if you have any problems or questions.

Blackboard Login

Instructor Resources

Audience Response System

The College of Pharmacy owns and maintains an Audience Response System for use by faculty. If used appropriately, the system can enhance interactivity in the classroom, capture real-time data, and provide formative evaluations for student learning. The unit resides in the PH 220 closet and the software is pre-installed on the computers in PH 220 and PH 223.

Training

Training on how to use the system is strongly encouraged. Contact Jeff Cain at 257-4429 to arrange training and/or consults.

Reserving the system

Because of frequent use, the system needs to be reserved in advance. Call AV Services at 323-6455 and ask to reserve the College of Pharmacy Audience Response System. (The Medical Center has an identical system).

Hardware components

One Fleetwood base receiving unit 250 Fleetwood handheld responders

Software

Synthesis 2000 by Comtec Group Response

Scheduling a Computer Classroom

Student Computing Services computer classrooms (such as the one on the 6th floor of the College of Nursing Building) are available for use by UK faculty on a reservation basis. Click on the link below to reserve one of these rooms.

Reserve a computer classroom

Computer-Based Testing

What is computer-based testing (CBT)?

Computer-based testing is simply giving an exam via the computer.

What are advantages of CBT?

Immediate and instant feedback for students
Saves paper resources
No grading (if configured appropriately)

Has anyone in the COP used computer-based testing?

Dr. Oliveira used Blackboard for the PHR 912 (PY1s) final exam in Fall 2002, Fall 2003, and Fall 2004.
Dr. Romanelli gives a mock NABPLEX exam to PY3s every spring.

What software is available for computer-based testing?

UK uses Blackboard for CBT.

What rooms on campus are available for computer-based testing?

The computer classroom in NUR 604j is the best room for administering computer-based testing. This a self-contained classroom (not general-use open area) there are 55 computers, and MUST be reserved in advance. (http://www.uky.edu/SCS/resform_online.html)
The Lesshafft Lab in the College of Pharmacy (3rd floor) is another option with 34 computers, but availability is limited. (Contact Tina Music)

What types of questions can I ask in computer-based testing?

Multiple choice, multiple answer, T/F, matching are the most popular because they can all be scored by the computer automatically.
Essays and short answer can be included, but they still require grading by the instructor/TA.

Can the tests contain pictures or graphs?

Yes. Blackboard allows you to insert image files of .jpg or .gif format.

Can the test be configured so that only students in my class have access?

Yes. Blackboard restricts access to only those students enrolled in the class.

Can the students receive their grade as soon as they finish the test?

They can receive the grade for that exam if configured properly
- MC, T/F, MA (not essay)
- "Show feedback" must be enabled for the assessment
They can receive the grade for the entire course if all the grades are in the Blackboard online grade book.

What issues should I be aware of when planning for computer-based testing?

Experience students have with this format
Time allotted for the test
Time between groups (if applicable)
Password protection for the exam if test is administered to 2 groups
An alternative plan in case computers/Blackboard go down
A plan for those students taking exam early/late

What safeguards should be taken?

Reserve the computer classroom well in advance
Alert Student Computing Services Lab Manager, AV Library, & TASC Blackboard administrators
Arrange to have a computer technician nearby
Provide an alternative plan (such as paper copies) in case computers/Blackboard is down
Have a proctor(s) onsite

Teaching & Academic Support Center (TASC)

The Teaching and Academic Support Center (TASC) represents a diverse group of faculty and staff whose mission is to improve teaching and student learning throughout our university. TASC will encourage and promote pedagogical innovation, effective applications of teaching technology, and development of alternative instructional modes.

Services provided by TASC include

Audio-visual support
Educational art, media, & graphics production
Instructional design and technology support
Instructional Technology Center

Telephone: 859-257-8272 ext. 236